Tue, 24/03/2009

This month Mary turned the sod for the new Belconnen High gymnasium.

“This new gym for Belconnen High is a great new asset for the school and the wider community,” Mary said. It is part of the $90 million Schools Infrastructure Refurbishment program.

“After extensive consultation with the principal and school community, the new gym not only maximises the range of sporting activity possible, but also includes a variety of sustainable energy initiatives,” Mary commented.

The design of the gym reflects the ACT Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, with a range of features to reduce energy and water consumption. Rain water tanks will irrigate the grounds around the gym and be used for toilets and solar hot water systems have been installed.

The students are already planning a veggie patch using the rain water. The building orientation will optimise heating and cooling, and the design makes great use of natural lighting.

The new gym will include provision for basketball, netball, soccer, hockey, volleyball, badminton and indoor climbing.

“Belconnen High’s new gymnasium will promote health and wellbeing for the students, assist in developing sporting excellence and will be available to the community to utilise,” Mary concluded.